Passion for Sport. Respect for Officials

Triathlon Ireland celebrates the people who make our sport possible as part of Sport Ireland’s Respect for Officials campaign this October.

Sport Ireland | Respect for Officials Campaign

Officials play a vital role in every triathlon, from local club events to national championships. Their knowledge, commitment and dedication help ensure athletes can compete in a fair, safe and positive environment.

This October, Triathlon Ireland is supporting Sport Ireland’s Respect for Officials campaign, which highlights the important contribution officials make across Irish sport and encourages everyone involved to recognise and value their role.

Throughout the month, we’ll be shining a spotlight on the people behind the whistle, the clipboard and the finish line through our Meet the Officials interview series.

Meet the Officials : Mary Shirley

We’re delighted to feature Mary Shirley, Triathlon Ireland Technical Official and passionate advocate for women in sport, as part of the series.

Mary brings valuable experience and insight to triathlon officiating, helping ensure our events run smoothly while supporting the continued development of officials within the sport.

Through Sport Ireland’s Meet the Officials series, you can explore what motivates people to get involved, what people enjoy about officiating and the opportunities available to those who want to play a bigger role in triathlon.

By sharing the stories of our officials, we hope to inspire more people to discover the rewards of officiating and celebrate the community that makes triathlon possible.

A shared commitment to Respect

Triathlon Ireland is proud to support a sporting culture built on respect, fairness and teamwork. Athletes, coaches, clubs, volunteers, supporters and officials all contribute to the experience of our sport.

Respect for officials is part of the positive environment we want to foster at every event. A shared appreciation of their expertise and commitment helps everyone enjoy the sport at its best.

Find out more about Sport Ireland’s Respect for Officials campaign and join us in celebrating the people who make sport happen here.

Save the date: Women in Sport Officiating Day 2026

Saturday 21st November 2026 | Athlone Springs Hotel

Triathlon Ireland is also delighted to support Women in Sport Officiating Day 2026, bringing together women involved in officiating across sport for a day of connection, learning and shared experiences.

Delivered in partnership with Athletics Ireland, Cycling Ireland, Rowing Ireland, Swim Ireland and Triathlon Ireland, the event will provide an opportunity for women at every stage of their officiating journey to build connections, develop confidence and learn from one another.

Whether you’re new to officiating, progressing along the pathway or an experienced official, this is an opportunity to connect with a supportive network of women who share your passion for sport.

More information and registration details will be available soon.

Could you become a Triathlon Ireland Technical Official?

If you love swim. bike, run and want to contribute to the sport in a new way, becoming a Technical Official is a great opportunity to get involved, develop new skills and support athletes at events across Ireland.

Discover the pathway and find out how to get started on our Become a Technical Official page.